New Mozambique President Sworn In

Mozambique's new President Armando Guebuza has been sworn into office, vowing to fight poverty and disease in the southern African nation.

Thousands gathered at Independence Square in Maputo where Mr. Guebuza took the oath of office Wednesday. South Africa's President Thabo Mbeki and his Zimbabwean counterpart, Robert Mugabe, also attended.

Opposition leader Afonso Dhlakama boycotted the ceremony, after repeatedly alleging fraud in the December election.

President Guebuza is replacing Joaquim Chissano, who led a transition government after nearly a decade of civil war.

Mr. Guebuza has vowed to maintain economic policies drafted by his predecessor, which aim to boost ties with foreign businesses and international lenders.

The 61-year-old businessman has also served as a cabinet member and ruling party leader in Mozambique's parliament.